SCN announces $13.5M in funding for 36 regenerative medicine research projects and clinical trials involving more than 240 researchers, clinicians, and trainees from across Canada, with more than $19.5M in support from national partners.
June 16, 2025 (Ottawa, ON) – The Stem Cell Network (SCN) announced today a $13.5 million investment in 36 new regenerative medicine research projects and clinical trials. This initiative, supported by 63 partner organizations contributing more than $19.5 million in matching cash and in-kind support, represents a collective $33 million boost to Canada’s regenerative medicine ecosystem. The funded projects will drive ground-breaking research across 14 disease areas, including for rare diseases such as Rett syndrome and cystic fibrosis.
Rooted in the transformative potential of stem cells, regenerative medicine aims to restore or replace damaged cells, tissues, and organs. With SCN’s support, Canadian researchers are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in health care—developing therapies designed not just to manage symptoms, but to stop or even reverse the course of disease. This latest funding will support research into a wide range of diseases, including type 1 diabetes, retinal degeneration, lung and cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis.
As the only national funder dedicated exclusively to regenerative medicine, SCN saw a record-breaking 111 applications during this funding cycle—reflecting the strong demand for support and the vitality of Canada’s regenerative medicine research community. Of those, 36 high-potential projects were selected for funding, representing a 32% success rate comparing favourably with other national funding programs. Spanning innovation through to translation and commercialization, these projects will be carried out at 20 institutions across the country and will engage more than 240 researchers, clinicians, and trainees.
New to this funding cycle is the addition of Joint Funding Collaborators, which together have leveraged $1.2 million in support. Among them, Breakthrough T1D is supporting four projects advancing research in type 1 diabetes, while the Azrieli Foundation is backing one project aimed at improving outcomes for individuals with a rare neurological disorder. Innovative partnerships such as these exemplify the power of collaboration in driving forward cutting-edge research with real-world impact.
Quotes:
“Regenerative medicine is Canada’s science. With this latest investment, we’re supporting innovative research projects and clinical trials across Canada that are creating high-quality jobs, strengthening our health economy, and accelerating the development of new therapies for patients. Today’s announcement is a testament to the impact Canadian science continues to have right here at home.” – Cate Murray, President and CEO, Stem Cell Network
“As part of today’s investment, we’re grateful to have the support of national partners and Canadian biotech companies who share our commitment to advancing science and improving patient outcomes. With over 240 researchers, clinicians, and trainees working on projects that span the full research pipeline—from bench to bedside to marketplace—the Stem Cell Network is proud to support research at every stage.” – Michael Rudnicki, O.C., Ph.D., FRS, FRSC, Scientific Director, Stem Cell Network
“Accelerating cell therapies is a central focus of Breakthrough T1D’s research strategy to drive toward cures for type 1 diabetes. We’re excited to join Stem Cell Network and Breakthrough T1D Canada in funding these outstanding cell therapy researchers and projects that can build on the current momentum to overcome barriers and advance cell therapies that can benefit all those who live with type 1 diabetes.” – Esther Latres, Ph.D., Vice President of Research, Breakthrough T1D
“We have partnered with Stem Cell Network for many years to fund training and build capacity in Canada to advance islet replacement therapies for T1D. We are now delighted to expand this partnership to support several new projects, which will further advance the field and accelerate new therapies towards the clinic.” – Sarah Linklater, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer, Breakthrough T1D Canada
-30-
About the Stem Cell Network
The Stem Cell Network (SCN) is a Canadian not-for-profit that supports stem cell and regenerative medicine research; training the next generation of highly qualified personnel; enabling knowledge mobilization of research; and enhancing the commercialization readiness of stem cell and RM innovations. From the lab to the clinic, SCN’s goal is to power life-saving therapies and technologies through regenerative medicine research for the benefit of all. Created in 2001, with support from the Government of Canada, the Network has funded over 280 research projects and 30 clinical trials, cumulatively driven by experts from 350 research groups across Canada. Since its inception, over 28 biotech companies have been catalyzed or enhanced and more than 7,900 highly qualified personnel have been trained. In 2023, the Government of Canada announced additional funding for SCN through the Strategic Science Fund that will support SCN activities and research through to the end of the decade.
About Breakthrough T1D
As the leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D helps make everyday life with type 1 diabetes better while driving toward cures. We do this by investing in the most promising research, advocating for progress by working with government to address issues that impact the T1D community, and helping educate and empower individuals facing this condition.
About Breakthrough T1D Canada
As the leading global type 1 diabetes (T1D) research and advocacy organization, Breakthrough T1D helps to make every day better for those living with the disease while driving toward cures. Since the discovery of insulin, Canada has remained at the forefront of T1D research. Breakthrough T1D is committed to investing in the most promising research, advocating for progress by working with governments to address issues that impact the T1D community, and supporting individuals facing this disease.
About the Azrieli Foundation
The Azrieli Foundation has been opening doors, breaking ground and nurturing networks for more than 30 years. The Foundation focuses on improving the lives of present and future generations through education, research, healthcare and the arts. The largest public foundation in Canada, the Azrieli Foundation, funds institutions and operates programs in Canada and Israel.
Media Contact:
Samantha Rae Ayoub
Vice President, Communications & Knowledge Mobilization
Stem Cell Network
srae@stemcellnetwork.ca
Download the news release and research spotlights
Originally published by the Stem Cell Network. Read the original article here.
